An Asian-style chopped salad is vibrant, crunchy, and full of flavors. Here’s a step-by-step process to make it:
Ingredients:
- Salad Base:
- 4 cups Napa cabbage (chopped)
- 1 cup red cabbage (chopped)
- 1 cup carrots (julienned)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup edamame (cooked and shelled)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for spice)
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the Napa and Red Cabbage: Start by chopping both cabbages into bite-sized pieces. Need to place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Julienne the Carrots: Thinly slice the carrots or use a julienne peeler. Add to the bowl.
- Slice the Bell Peppers: Thinly slice the red and yellow bell peppers. Add to the salad.
- Prepare Edamame: If using frozen edamame, cook according to the package instructions, drain, and let them cool before adding to the salad.
- Chop the Green Onions and Cilantro: Chop the green onions and cilantro, then add them to the bowl.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha (if using).
- Gradually whisk in the neutral oil until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- Need to pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables.
- Need to toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and sesame seeds on top of the salad for added crunch and flavor.
5. Serve:
- You need to serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Asian-style chopped salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. You can also add protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make it more filling. Enjoy!
